Episode Notes

Stevens Roundtable:

In this Stevens Roundtable, Tim sits down with Allie Gilbert and Brett Cortopassi to pull back the curtain on Stevens' Independent Contractor (IC) program, and why it can be a game-changing path for drivers who want more freedom, more upside, and a real shot at building their own business.

A Simple Gesture of Thanks from Stevens for Making the Right Safety Decision

Sitting still while the clock ticks is one of the toughest parts of the job. But with severe weather that swept the country over the past couple of weeks, hundreds of our drivers made the professional decision to park it and prioritize safety over speed. Stevens simple gesture of thanks to our drivers.

Team Driving

Discover the transformative world of team driving with Stevens Transport in this insightful discussion. Learn how driving with a partner boosts efficiency, earning potential, and safety, while allowing for nearly constant travel and the enjoyment of America's stunning landscapes.

Earn More/Team Up - https://vimeo.com/1020240977

Driver Spotlight: Driver Spotlight: Leonard "Joe" De Jean

Meet driver/trainer Leonard "Joe" De Jean. After reaching his first million miles, Leonard has gained the knowledge and confidence through Stevens Transport to one day start his own trucking business. In this video, hear more about Leonard's journey, and get insight from one of his former students.

See the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUDNTIELidQ

Tip of the Stevens Ten-Gallon Hat

Congrats to driver, Dawun Brinson, who finished his lease completion with Stevens Transport at the end of last year and driver, Lewis Williams who is now a permanent fixture in the Stevens Transport Haul of Fame by logging One million miles with Stevens Transport.

Maximize Your Earnings by Getting Hazmat Certified

Higher Load Pay: Earn extra on top of your miles for every Hazmat load hauled. You are already driving the miles; make sure you are getting paid top-tier rates for them. Contact Driver Services to get your reimbursement started!

Become a Driver for Stevens Transport
For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/

Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227

http://www.stevenstransport.com/

http://www.becomeadriver.com/

Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595.

Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com

Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

Stevens Roundtable:

In this Stevens Roundtable, Tim Cicciarelli and Stevens Safety Supervisor, Terrence Burgess discuss essential safety tips for truck drivers navigating adverse weather conditions. They emphasize the importance of trip planning, checking weather updates, and making informed decisions about driving in dangerous situations. Terrence shares insights on managing speed, maintaining control, and knowing when to seek help from the safety department or driver managers. The discussion aims to equip drivers with practical advice to ensure their safety and that of their cargo during challenging weather.

Team Driving

Discover the transformative world of team driving with Stevens Transport in this insightful discussion. Learn how driving with a partner boosts efficiency, earning potential, and safety, while allowing for nearly constant travel and the enjoyment of America's stunning landscapes. Understand how federal regulations intersect with teamwork logistics, enabling over 5,500 miles a week. Insights on rest strategies, like bunk bed sleeping arrangements, are shared. Stevens Transport explains the advantages of choosing your driving partner and how this approach can elevate your trucking career. Explore team driving's benefits and start your journey to success now.

Earn More/Team Up - https://vimeo.com/1020240977

Driver Spotlight: Tyjae Horton

Meet Tyjae Horton, an Independent Contractor from Atlanta, Georgia. He completed his first lease, and couldn't be more proud of the accomplishment. Outside of the lease completion, he enjoys training students because he wants to help future truckers. Learn more about Tyjae's journey at Stevens Transport!

See the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5L_O5Wtht0

Women in Trucking TV News Story
Trucker Tim shares a local television news story out of Columbus, Georgia, where a Stevens Driving Academy hosted a "Women in Trucking" event. You'll hear from students about what pushed them to finally take the leap, and what it means to step into a career that's opening doors for women nationwide.

Tip of the Stevens Ten-Gallon Hat - Destarr Deblanc

While the world saw another Stevens truck moving steadily toward its destination, Destarr DeBlanc was actually completing a journey of a different kind: her lease completion. This moment is the culmination of every decision made with integrity and every mile driven with a purpose. It represents the exact point where "working a job" officially transforms into "owning a future."

Become a Driver for Stevens Transport
For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/

Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227

http://www.stevenstransport.com/

http://www.becomeadriver.com/

Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595.

Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com

Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

Stevens Roundtable: Safety First: Preparing for the Winter Storm

Tim Cicciarelli and Ken Resta, Stevens Transports Senior Director of Safety discuss the impending severe winter storm affecting a large portion of the United States. They emphasize the importance of driver safety and preparedness, outlining the expected weather conditions and the necessary precautions drivers should take. The conversation also highlights the support Stevens Transport provides to its drivers during such events, including communication strategies and resources available to ensure their safety and well-being.

Key Takeaways:

• Drivers need to be aware of the severe weather conditions affecting their routes.
• Preparedness includes having extra supplies and planning for safe parking.
• Communication with driver managers is crucial during severe weather events.
• Drivers should make safety decisions early to avoid dangerous situations.
• The storm is expected to impact a significant portion of the country.
• Stevens Transport is committed to keeping drivers informed and safe.
• Drivers should expect weather updates through various communication channels.
• It's important to plan for potential delays in freight delivery due to weather.
• Safety protocols are in place to protect drivers during severe weather.
• Drivers are encouraged to take personal safety precautions when parked.

Become a Driver for Stevens Transport
For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/

Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227

http://www.stevenstransport.com/

http://www.becomeadriver.com/

Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595.

Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com

Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

Stevens Roundtable: Weekly Independent Contractor Workshops

In this Stevens Roundtable, Tim welcomes back Serena Vogel, VP of Driver Resources, to kick off the new year with an opportunity for drivers who want to build a business. Serena announces a weekly Independent Contractor Workshop every Thursday from 11:30–12:30 in Classroom D, open to contractors, interested company drivers, and anyone with questions. Drivers can drop in for support, guidance, and real-world insight from business advisors, driver managers, and the contractor support team.

Stevens Employee Spotlight: Dren Hawkins

Trucker Tim introduces Stevens' new Marketing & Media Specialist, and shares why these spotlights matter in Season 9. Dren talks about her creative background in graphic design, her early trucking-world exposure through UPS, and how her passion for storytelling and design led her to Stevens. It's a fun, fast-paced welcome that helps drivers connect a real face to the messages and media they see every day.

Team Driving

Discover the transformative world of team driving with Stevens Transport in this insightful discussion. Learn how driving with a partner boosts efficiency, earning potential, and safety, while allowing for nearly constant travel and the enjoyment of America's stunning landscapes. Understand how federal regulations intersect with teamwork logistics, enabling over 5,500 miles a week. Insights on rest strategies, like bunk bed sleeping arrangements, are shared. Stevens Transport explains the advantages of choosing your driving partner and how this approach can elevate your trucking career. Explore team driving's benefits and start your journey to success now.

Earn More/Team Up - https://vimeo.com/1020240977

Team Drivers Spotlight: Allen Ino & Miguel Ocegueda

Meet Team Drivers Allen Ino and Miguel Ocegueda! Though they took different paths into the trucking industry, they enjoy driving together for the extra miles and the great company on the road. Both Allen and Miguel are grateful for the opportunity to drive with Stevens and experience life on the open road.

See the video here: https://youtu.be/QnS4f6jwqpE?si=1UCEE0i8HOirhFGo

Tip of the Stevens Ten-Gallon Hat - Matthew Randolph

Tim sits down with Matthew Randolph, Stevens' Employee of the Year, who also earned a promotion to Senior Fleet Safety Manager. Matthew shares the moment he realized he'd won at the holiday party, what the recognition meant to him, and why Stevens leadership stands out for noticing effort and investing in people. He credits a "driver-first" safety mindset, strong leadership, and real process improvements for helping him make an impact quickly.

Become a Driver for Stevens Transport
For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/

Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227

http://www.stevenstransport.com/

http://www.becomeadriver.com/

Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595.

Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com

Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

Stevens Roundtable: 45 Years of Excellence - Stevens Transport

45 years of Stevens Transport history, from 18 trucks in 1980 to a nationwide operation powered by technology, people, and purpose. Through milestones, innovations, awards, and growth, one theme stands out: Stevens isn't just a family-run business, it's a business of families.See the Video Here: https://youtu.be/VXuk1PataDU?si=9IpDFc_hWwOfImQd

Driving Safety Reminder

From the desk of Stevens Transport's Safety Supervisor, Terrance Burgess, we share a timely reminder on Right Lane Change Safety, breaking down five essential steps every professional driver should follow.

Team Driving

Discover the transformative world of team driving with Stevens Transport in this insightful discussion. Learn how driving with a partner boosts efficiency, earning potential, and safety, while allowing for nearly constant travel and the enjoyment of America's stunning landscapes. Understand how federal regulations intersect with teamwork logistics, enabling over 5,500 miles a week. Insights on rest strategies, like bunk bed sleeping arrangements, are shared. Stevens Transport explains the advantages of choosing your driving partner and how this approach can elevate your trucking career. Explore team driving's benefits and start your journey to success now.

Earn More/Team Up - https://vimeo.com/1020240977

Driver Spotlight: William Morris

Meet William Morris, a dedicated driver at Stevens Transport with an incredible 22 years on the road and 2 million miles under his belt. While this milestone is a major achievement, William isn't slowing down. He's already focused on reaching 3 million miles. His love for life on the road and the opportunity to experience a new place every day keeps him motivated mile after mile. Congratulations, William!

See the video here: https://youtu.be/PwI1JzYE7CA?si=wLdfh1Q9isrT1jmm

Tip of the Stevens Ten-Gallon Hat

We proudly celebrate James Crawford for reaching the remarkable One Million Mile milestone with Stevens Transport. This achievement represents years of dedication, safety, and reliability on the road, and the countless communities James has served along the way. We also proudly recognize Devin and Lareshia Pickett for completing their very first lease with Stevens Transport, an exciting milestone achieved together as a husband-and-wife team. Since joining the Stevens family in 2023, their dedication, teamwork, and commitment to excellence have made them a true example of what it means to build a business on the road.

January 2026 - News Bulletin

All the latest news currently happening at Stevens Transport

Become a Driver for Stevens Transport
For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/

Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227

http://www.stevenstransport.com/

http://www.becomeadriver.com/

Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595.

Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com

Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

Stevens Roundtable: 45 Years of Excellence - Stevens Transport

Celebrate 45 years of excellence in refrigerated transportation with Stevens Transport, a proud family-owned leader in the trucking industry. This video details the journey of Stevens Transport from a small operation with just a few trucks in 1980 to becoming one of the largest refrigerated carriers in North America.

See the Video Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMefRiGnGNA

How The Truckers Saved Christmas - Bill Weaver Music

A self penned Christmas song about D.O.T. shutting Santa down and the Truckers saving Christmas.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7F0LgQicHw

Team Driving

Discover the transformative world of team driving with Stevens Transport in this insightful discussion. Learn how driving with a partner boosts efficiency, earning potential, and safety, while allowing for nearly constant travel and the enjoyment of America's stunning landscapes. Understand how federal regulations intersect with teamwork logistics, enabling over 5,500 miles a week. Insights on rest strategies, like bunk bed sleeping arrangements, are shared. Stevens Transport explains the advantages of choosing your driving partner and how this approach can elevate your trucking career. Explore team driving's benefits and start your journey to success now.

Earn More/Team Up - https://vimeo.com/1020240977

Driver Spotlight: Raymond Hatchette Jr.

Meet Stevens Transport independent contractor and trainer Raymond Hatchette, Jr.! Raymond shares the journey he's taken from military service to transitioning to a civilian career, highlighting the importance of being patient and working hard, while feeling grateful for the opportunity to teach the next generation of truck drivers.

See the video here: https://youtu.be/upnzC79uMfI?si=X0JFwihFK-mKRUdZ

Miles and Mentors - Raymond Hatchette Jr.

As a special holiday treat, we're proud to share a song written and performed by one of our own, Raymond Hatchette, Jr, a Stevens contracted driver who has completed three successful leases, serves as a driver trainer, and is also a talented songwriter and singer. "Miles and Mentors" is more than a song, it's a heartfelt tribute to the lessons learned on the road and the people who shape us along the way.

Become a Driver for Stevens Transport
For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/

Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227

http://www.stevenstransport.com/

http://www.becomeadriver.com/

Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595.

Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com

Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

Stevens Roundtable: Safety Results That Matter

Trucker Tim sits down with Ken Resta, Senior Director of Safety, who joined Stevens Transport in July 2023 and has already helped drive major safety improvements. Ken credits the teamwork between safety, operations, and drivers for measurable gains in speeding, intersection compliance, and on-road behaviors. A powerful update on progress, accountability, and keeping Stevens at the top of the safety game.

Stevens Driver- Andres Sanchez III – 18 Years Strong

Andres Sanchez III, a Stevens Transport driver with an incredible 18-year career, all with Stevens reflects on watching the fleet evolve from the early blue trucks of the 2000s to today's modern, technology-packed equipment, and how those advancements help improve safety for drivers and the motoring public. From warehouse work to life behind the wheel, Andres' story is a powerful example of how trucking with Stevens can provide stability, pride, and the ability to support a family for the long haul.

Safety Tip: Winterizing Your Truck & Yourself

In this Safety Tip of the Week, Safety Supervisor Terrence Burgess shares essential reminders for preparing both your truck and yourself for winter driving conditions.

Team Driving

Discover the transformative world of team driving with Stevens Transport in this insightful discussion. Learn how driving with a partner boosts efficiency, earning potential, and safety, while allowing for nearly constant travel and the enjoyment of America's stunning landscapes. Understand how federal regulations intersect with teamwork logistics, enabling over 5,500 miles a week. Insights on rest strategies, like bunk bed sleeping arrangements, are shared. Stevens Transport explains the advantages of choosing your driving partner and how this approach can elevate your trucking career. Explore team driving's benefits and start your journey to success now.

Earn More/Team Up - https://vimeo.com/1020240977

Driver Spotlight: Tommy Faucette

Meet Tommy Faucette, an Owner Operator of five years from Henderson, NC. His father sparked his passion for trucking, and Stevens Transport's exceptional equipment showed him he was in the right place. Now a proud truck owner, the reality still hasn't fully sunk in. Learn more about Tommy and the road that led him here.

See the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYYvStUEEwg

Tip of the Big Ten Gallon Stevens Cap

We tip the big ten-gallon Stevens cap to Driver, Mark Scriven on being named a top-three finalist in the Transition Trucking campaign and earning the $10,000 award is a tremendous accomplishment, Mark served our country with honor and continues to serve this industry with the same dedication, professionalism, and commitment to safety. We are proud to have you behind the wheel of a Stevens truck Mark.

Become a Driver for Stevens Transport
For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/

Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227

http://www.stevenstransport.com/

http://www.becomeadriver.com/

Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595.

Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com

Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

Follow Stevens Transport on Facebook:
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